Tazewell, VA (WOAY) Virginia farmers affected by ongoing dry conditions could soon receive federal assistance.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has designated Tazewell County as a primary natural disaster area due to the recent drought.
As part of that designation, farmers in Bland, Buchanan, Russell, and Smyth counties are also eligible for drought assistance programs.
Morgan Griffith says the designation is needed after spring frost and freeze events were followed by severe drought, creating significant challenges for the region’s agricultural industry.
The declaration allows eligible farmers to apply for emergency loan assistance through the USDA.
Griffith says his office is prepared to help connect producers with available federal resources and will continue advocating for farming communities as they deal with a difficult growing season and record temperatures.
